FROM THIS EPISODE

California’s public employees’ retirement system is chronically underfunded. Asked how to fix it, Governor Brown told reporters a good place to start would be “getting rid of the ability to buy air time.”

The Grand Avenue project on Bunker Hill is supposed to put Los Angeles on the cultural map of the world. But the Grand Avenue Authority just gave the Related Companies yet another extension of the deadline to break ground on Phase One. In the meantime, the suburbs—where many lovers of culture reside—are building their own centers. Most recently, CalState University Northridge opened the Valley Performing Arts Center to rave reviews. The west side is another source of potential audiences for the Grand Avenue project downtown. Since 2008, west-siders have been attending performances at the Broad Stage in Santa Monica.

Since Mubarak of Egypt was forced out of the presidency, other Middle Eastern countries have seen massive political protests. Protesters have taken to the streets in Bahrain, Yemen, Algeria, Jordan, Libya and Iran. Some have been promised reforms. Others encountered tear gas, arrest, rubber bullets, and live ammunition. Several demonstrators have been killed. The ultimate goals are different in every country, but the common objective is an end to repression and respect for human rights. As the US walks the tightrope between protesters and government allies, does democracy have a chance? Is Turkey the best model for a modern Islamic state?